Capital Improvement Project Information Sheet
Title: Agate Bay Stormwater Improvements Phase I
Contact information: Kraig Olason, Project Manager, Whatcom County Public Works Stormwater Division
Phone: 360-778-6301 Email:
[email protected]
Location: The Agate Bay Stormwater Improvements Phase I project will take place on Agate Heights Road and Northshore Road between Agate Heights Road and Agate Bay Lane, approximately 2.2 miles east of Bellingham City Limits on Northshore Road (Township 38 North, Range 3 East, Sections 24-25)
Problem Statement: Lake Whatcom provides a drinking water source, a place to recreate, and provides aquatic habitat for many species, making it a vital resource for the residents of Whatcom County. Due to an increase in algal blooms and a decline in water quality, protecting this resource has become a top priority. During rain events, phosphorous and other pollutants that impact water quality are carried into the lake through stormwater conveyance systems. Sediment is a common source of phosphorous, but can also carry pollutants such as metals and pesticides.
Agate Bay has been identified as a location within the watershed that is contributing to the phosphorous loading issue. This is a result of increased development and impervious surfaces, which causes water to move quickly over the land's surface rather than infiltrating into the soil. Unstable roadside ditches in this area also contribute sediment that is transported to Lake Whatcom during rain events.
In addition to water quality concerns, a location has been identified on Agate Heights Road, near Northshore Road, where excess stormwater has been sheeting across the road, causing icy conditions during winter weather.
Project Description: This project addresses stormwater pollutants impacting Lake Whatcom by stabilizing ditches, installing check dams to slow flow and improve infiltration, and installing three filter vaults that target phosphorous reduction. Additionally, upgrades to existing storm drainage infrastructure will help address stormwater conveyance and safety issues.
Project Goals:
- Reduce phosphorous by treating stormwater runoff before it discharges into Lake Whatcom.
- Prevent erosion, slow down flow during heavy rain events, and encourage infiltration.
- Upgrade conveyance systems with safeguards for large storm events and improve safety.
Project Duration and Schedule: Work will begin on July 9th, 2018 and will take an estimated 8 weeks to complete. Working hours for this project are 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
For more information, please see the current Press Release 7/11/18
Press Release 7/6/18